Species

Salvia greggiiAutumn Sage

17 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Dark Dancer Autumn Sage

Salvia greggii 'Dark Dancer'

Same species

Species

Salvia greggiiAutumn Sage

17 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low water needs once established

Humidity

Prefers dry conditions

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southwestern U.S., Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Autumn Sage is a small, woody perennial or sub-shrub native to Texas and Mexico. It features small, aromatic leaves and blooms with two-lipped, tubular flowers from spring until frost, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators. It is known for its heat and drought tolerance. 'Dark Dancer' is a notable cultivar selected for its profusion of large, intensely colored, deep fuchsia-pink flowers. It maintains a compact, bushy habit and provides a long season of vibrant color.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid red flowers attract hummingbirds and add vibrant color to gardens.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist until established.
Place in full sun for best flowering.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Overwater or sit in soggy soil ❌
Allow to become leggy or overgrown
Use heavy mulch that retains too much moisture

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful borderXeriscape featureWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Russian Sage Sedum Yarrow Blanket Flower

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dark Dancer Autumn Sage questions

What zones can Dark Dancer Autumn Sage grow in?

Dark Dancer Autumn Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dark Dancer Autumn Sage deer resistant?

Yes — Dark Dancer Autumn Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Dark Dancer Autumn Sage bloom?

Dark Dancer Autumn Sage typically blooms in spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dark Dancer Autumn Sage need full sun?

Dark Dancer Autumn Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Dark Dancer Autumn Sage drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dark Dancer Autumn Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.